The storm drain is one of several left open during a storm to help limit flooding near the U.S.-Mexico Border

Receive the latest local updates in your inbox

A man was discovered trapped in a swollen storm drain left open just miles from the U.S.-Mexico border in an attempt to help limit flooding.

The 23-year-old Mexican national was pulled from the drain at Dairy Mart Road and Monument Road around 11:30 p.m. Sunday.

Suspected Illegal Immigrant Rescued from Storm Drain

San Diego Fire and Rescue, lifeguards, urban rescue and swift water rescue teams were called to the location about three miles west of the San Ysidro port of entry.

Using a rope, lifeguards were able to pull the unidentified man from the drain about an hour later. He was wearing a long-sleeved shirt, a vest and long pants. Agents then helped the man strip down as he was decontaminated and then taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital.

61 Bundles of Narcotics Seized From Vehicle in San Clemente

When San Diego County gets a considerable amount of rain, the U.S. Border Patrol opens up the gates to allow the free flow of water through the drainage tube.

“It’s not common but when it rains, we do see these type of entries through drainage tubes,” Steven Pitts, U.S. Border Patrol said.

The unidentified suspect was then released from the hospital, taken to the local Border Patrol station where he will be processed as a suspected illegal immigrant.

Keep up to date on breaking news: Follow us on Twitter @nbcsandiego, fan us on Facebook, sign up for our breaking news e-mail alerts or text SDBREAKING to 622339 to receive text messages for local breaking news. (For more info, text HELP. To end, text STOP. Message and data rates may apply.)